BOSTON – John Calipari showed a bit of a crack in his cool demeanor yesterday morning but quickly regrouped before last night’s game and presented a strong face – one that accepted some of the blame for the Nets’ disappointing start.

Calipari was asked after the morning shootaround if, as has been suggested, the game with the Celtics’ here was critical for him in terms of job security.

“That’s a dumb question to ask. I’m not even going to comment on it. That’s ridiculous. I answered it,” Calipari said, obviously annoyed.

But before the game, he was visibly calmer and instead of talking about schedule, injuries or the Nets’ cadaver-like shooting, all of which are legit points and all of which have ganged up on New Jersey, Calipari suggested he is disappointed in the job he has done thus far.

“I’m not losing faith in [the players]. My job is I’ve got to get them to play better and I’m not doing that,” Calipari said. “I’m very disappointed in the fact that guys aren’t having career years, and that’s something I’ve taken great pride in. It’s unacceptable for the job I’m doing.”

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Brian Evans wore the most surprised look in the Nets’ locker room. The 6-foot-7 forward, who has become the last man on the bench, heard that Calipari was considering using him again. Calipari said he was impressed by Evans’ shooting at practice Sunday.

“He mentioned something to me,” said Evans, who appeared in seven games, receiving 80 minutes, in the first 12 games. “Two different times he said he thought about putting me in, but I’d hadn’t played [and might have been rusty] so he didn’t. My job is just to be ready when the call comes.”

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Jayson Williams on Calipari’s job security: “I go by what Cal and the owners tell me, and they say he’s all right. I don’t see Cal sweating.” … Celtics welcomed Ron Mercer (ankle sprain) back from the infirmary for last night. Also, Boston activated Walter McCarty (sprained toe) from the injured list. Former Net Dwayne Schintzius (knee) was on IL … Rony Seikaly (foot) and Sam Cassell (ankle) did not travel with the Nets.